I spent some time out in nature today and I ran into Jesus. He was kind enough to sit down with me and answer a few questions.
Me
First of all thank you for finding me today and agreeing to answer my questions.
Jesus
You’re welcome, but for the record, I’ve been with you all day every day for many years and all of the questions you’re about to ask have already been answered.
Me
You know what questions I’m about to ask?
Jesus
Yes.
Me
You’re right of course, I have felt your presence since the day I put my faith in your death and resurrection as payment for my sins. Thank you again, Lord.
Jesus
Call me Jesus.
Me
Thank you, Jesus! Can we start with the number one question on everyone’s mind?
Jesus
When I will return to establish my kingdom is not a date I can supply; you know this, but I will take this opportunity to illuminate on what I’ve already taught. There is work here on earth that needs to be finished before the kingdom of heaven can be established. I cannot do this work. This work must be accomplished by my followers. This work is not for my benefit – it’s for your benefit. I want each and every follower to reach their full potential. The notion that you are waiting for me to return is actually backwards. I’m waiting on you.
Me
Yes, I’ve understood that for some time now. Can you give us some additional specific direction, aside from what you’ve already provided?
Jesus
I can, but I’m reluctant. I don’t mean to be difficult, but I’ve already given you absolutely every bit of information you need to complete the work. I’ve given you the boards to build with, I’ve given you the hammer and the nails; you would not benefit from me doing the work.
Me
Understood. Let me walk through what I’ve learned from your teaching and maybe you can elaborate some.
Jesus
Good. That sounds productive.
Me
Love God. Love one another. That’s the central message in your teaching. We all know that, but I’m guessing we haven’t achieved the level of consistency you’re looking for.
Jesus
Can you do more?
Me
I’m certain I can.
Jesus
You’re not alone.
Me
Many of us are fully aware we need to do more, however, I don’t want to sound like I’m making an excuse, but we do have an enemy that is pretty good at keeping us distracted.
Jesus
Yes you do. And that is to your benefit.
Me
I understand how some difficult times can be beneficial. Still there are some extraordinarily difficult situations in this world that are hard to understand as being beneficial.
Jesus
As you know, I am not of this world. You should also know that as my follower you are no longer of this world. You are just passing through. The value of those hard-to-understand circumstances in the world will be realized when you get to the other side. Nothing in this world is of any real value on the other side. Not the money you have in the bank. Not the status you have achieved from your accomplishments. Not the body in which you currently reside. The only thing of value is how you respond to these difficult situations.
Me
Yes, I see that. But why do so many have to endure so much pain in this world?
Jesus
Are you familiar with the phrase spoiler alert?
Me
I am.
Jesus
If I answer your question about pain, I will be giving away the ending.
Me
Forgive me for saying so, but I think there are a lot of people who are ready to cut directly to the happy ending.
Jesus
The happy ending is here. It’s right now. It simply has to be realized. Nothing is missing from the equation. Every bit of pain in this world could be resolved with the tools I’ve already supplied.
Me
Even things like cancer and other horrible ailments?
Jesus
Light can eliminate darkness. The power at your disposal is inexhaustible. I know you’ve read the Bible.
Me
Many times.
Jesus
Expect a miracle. When all of God’s children get pointed in the same direction – expect a miracle.
With that, Jesus stood up, placed his hand on my shoulder, looked deep into my eyes, and simply vanished into a warm breeze that floated across my body into the sky above.